Have you heard of arnica oil? Arnica oil is an extract of the arnica plant, a flowering perennial herb that grows in mountain regions. It has been used for centuries to heal bruises and other injuries by speeding up the healing process. Learn all about the benefits of arnica oil and how to use it safely.
Arnica oil benefits include relieving pain, improving circulation and reducing inflammation. This blog post will explore these benefits in more detail as well as provide tips on how you can use it at home for various conditions like muscle soreness or bruising.
We'll also cover some safety precautions when using arnica oil so that you know what to watch out for when using this natural remedy. The goal is to help you feel better!
What Is Arnica Oil?
Native to Europe and Siberia, but also grows in North America, arnica is a flowering perennial plant from the daisy family. It has yellow petals, an orange center, and grows up to 2 feet high.
Arnica oil is a carrier oil that can be used as a base to dilute concentrated essential oils. By doing so, it makes the essential oil safe for topical use and in DIY recipes. Arnica oil is used to help “carry” the essential oil onto the skin.
This oil is known for its health-promoting and pain relieving powers. It grows in mountainous regions and is used in natural medicine.
| Botanical Name | Arnica montana |
| Skin Type | Best for all skin types but always dilute it (we like to buy it diluted) |
| Comedogenic Rating | 2, when infused in olive oil |
| Shelf Life | Can remain good for years if stored properly. Keep in a cool and dry place,such as a dresser drawer or kitchen cabinet. Keep away from heat and cold temperatures and moist areas (such as a bathroom). Signs that it has expired includes changes in smell, texture, and color. |
| Consistency & Absorption | Only use arnica oil in diluted form, as pure arnica is very potent. Use almond or grapeseed as a carrier oil to dilute pure arnica oil in a 30:70 ratio if oil is not already diluted. |
Note: May stain clothing.
Where to Buy Arnica Oil?
Arnica oil can be hard to find. Most of the time when purchasing arnica oil you will find it prediluted and not in its pure form due to its potency.
- Herb Pharm® uses whole flowers that are extracted and concentrated into cold-pressed certified organic olive oil. This arnica oil come diluted so it can be used as is.
- Treliaoils Arnica Oil is another option, it is extracted with low heat from the flowers and leaves of arnica plants into cold-pressed certified organic olive oil.
- You can also find arnica oil in a blend of healing oils called Trauma Oil, it is a favorite for bumps and bruises.
- Arnica Soothing Massage Oil by NOW Solutions is a massage blend with arnica oil in it as well as essential oils for a soothing massaging.
Next, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of arnica oil and how you can start using it in your wellness care.
Benefits of Arnica Oil
Arnica oil gets it powers thanks to the presence of thymol. Thymol has been found to help the healing process by acting as a vasodilator and transporting blood and fluid accumulations. It helps congested and trapped blood in muscles and joints to be able to better flow.
As one of the most popular homeopathic remedies for pain management, arnica oil is a terrific addition to your first aid kit because it is:
1. Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory Properties: Helps reduce swelling, relieve pain, and protect against infection.
2. Boosts Immune System: White blood cells are your the first line of defense for your body’s immune system. Arnica oil stimulates the production and activity of these cells.
3. Muscle Pain: Eases aches, spasms, pulled muscles, and arthritic pain. It is also a natural remedy for delayed onset muscle soreness.
4. Soothes Skin: Calms down skin irritations such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and bruising.
5. Anti-aging: Antioxidant elements helps lower oxidative stress. Prevents wrinkles, blemishes, and other signs of aging.
6. Insect Bites: Arnica oil can help treat bug bites and stings, and ease associated bruising and soreness.
This oil is definitely handy and can help enhance your health in a variety of ways. However, it IS very powerful... so let’s take a quick look at what you need to do to keep yourself safe from arnica oil’s side effects.
Side Effects of Arnica Oil
It’s important to take caution when using arnica. While it can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions, it also has some side effects that can cause discomfort.
The side effects of arnica oil include:
Stomach upset - Internal consumption is NOT recommended as it can be toxic when ingested in high doses. Even when diluted and ingested it can cause gas, cramping, nausea, vomiting and more.
Bleeding disorders - In large amounts it can cause internal hemorrhaging when ingested. It is recommended NOT to use arnica oil internally.
Wounds - Do not apply to open or broken skin as it can be toxic and can cause inflammation.
Pregnancy - It is not safe to use for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding as it can pass toxins to the baby. It can also induce premature labor due to the simulating elements in the oil.
Cautions: Do not apply on or around mucous membranes. Avoid prolonged use, prolonged use may cause skin irritation. Do not use on children under 5 years old.
What is a safe and effective way to use arnica oil? You are about to find out!
How To Use Arnica Oil
You can apply directly on desired location by massaging into skin until well absorbed. It may stain clothes so be sure it is absorbed before putting on clothing.
We recommend making your very own rollerball blend with Arnica Oil so that you always have it on hand. Here are 2 favorites:
Arnica Roller Blend |
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It is effective in treating both acute and chronic pain, apply to desired area.
It is also great to put into a travel bag, backpack, or first aid kit. |
Anti-Aging Under Eye Serum |
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Avoid costly treatments and store bought serums, try this nourishing anti-aging roller remedy instead. Just roll on finger tip and dab in with finger under eyes, AVOID getting into eyes.
Directions: Add all ingredients into roller bottle. To make measuring easy, be sure to use a funnel. |
Arnica is also one of the ingredients of Trauma Oil, read more about it here.
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